3 Tips for Finding the Best Mortgage Loan

3 Tips for Finding the Best Mortgage Loan

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial investments that the average American will make in their lifetime. Therefore, it is important to find a lender who you trust and feel happy working with now and in the future. Mortgage lending in Catlin, Illinois, is not a one-size-fits-all process. Buyers who enter the lending process with wide-open eyes will print the best deals.

Here are 3 tips to help you find the best lender for your situation.

Avoid Short Term Loans 3 Tips for Finding the Best Mortgage Loan

Short-term loans are not the same as a 30-year mortgage versus a 15-year mortgage. Short term loan refers to a loan that starts with a good interest rate, but has a clause that states within months, your interest rate can go up. This loan is usually called an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM). Think about short-term mortgage rates that can be adjusted if you know you’ll be in a position to refinance before your rate goes up.

Say NO to Special Interest Loans 3 Tips for Finding the Best Mortgage Loan

Loan interest only may seem like a way to save money because you do not pay the principal, but it’s really a money trap. Remember that at the beginning of the loan, you always pay more interest than the principal of the loan. Also, if you only pay interest, you really do not pay a mortgage and are still far from actually owning your home. Loans with interest are only best for new short-term construction projects that will be converted to regular payments once construction is completed.

Bad credit? Shop Around for the Best Loans 3 Tips for Finding the Best Mortgage Loan

Do not think that bad credit score means you have to be satisfied with the first lender who will give your application a second glance. Sub-prime lenders are short of supply shortly after the big recession, but that was a few years ago and the market has turned around. This means that there are more bad credit loan products available for less-than-perfect buyers.

Of course, that does not mean that all these products have your best financial interests. While a bad credit buyer will pay more interest and may be asked to pay points, be wary of lenders who want to take advantage of your situation. Take your time to weigh all your options. Also, consider taking a few years to build credit and save money with a low down payment. Both of these actions, in themselves, will put you in a better position to find a loan.